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Are Vaping Laws Too Harsh?
There’s no doubt about it—vaping is terrible for you. What’s the best way to prevent teens from doing it? Some people believe strict punishments are the answer. For example, a new law in Texas requires any students found with vape pens to attend a disciplinary program. While in the program, students are barred from attending their regular classes or participating in school-related extracurricular activities. Supporters of these types of laws say they will protect teens’ health. But others say that teens who struggle with vaping need help, not punishment. What do you think? Are policies against vaping too harsh?
Yes, vaping laws are too harsh. I have friends who struggle with vaping addiction. Stricter punishments against vaping would discourage students like my friends from seeking help. If teens know they'll be punished for vaping, they'll vape in secret instead of being open about their problem. Also, punishments like disciplinary programs could remove students from activities that encourage healthy behavior. For example, sports teach you the importance of physical health, which can motivate you to avoid unhealthy activities like vaping. To truly prevent and reduce vaping, schools should provide education and resources for teens struggling with addiction—not punishment.
—Zelda Abramovich, New York
No, these laws are not too harsh. Vaping causes damage to users’ hearts, lungs, and immune systems. Studies have also shown that even secondhand exposure to vape smoke can be harmful. That means nonsmokers can get sick from simply being near people who are vaping. If punishments like the disciplinary programs can discourage even a few students from vaping, they will be justified. People who worry that these punishments are too harsh should take into consideration the serious harm caused by vaping itself. I agree that these punishments are strict, but they are short-term. The long-term illnesses caused by vaping are far more worrisome than a temporary lack of privileges.
—Vineet Petlur, California
Are vaping laws too tough?
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